FFC Legend: Johnny Haynes

Thursday 19 June 2014 11:00

Here in the FFC Kids Zone we uncover the Fulham heroes of the past – the players that your older brothers and sisters, parents and even grandparents used to cheer on. Here, we reveal the talents of Johnny Haynes.

WHEN? 1952-1970

APPEARANCES/GOALS: 658/158

SIGNED FROM: Fulham’s Academy

POSITION IN TODAY'S GAME: Centre-midfield

TOP ATTRIBUTES: Vision, pin-point passing and close control

PLAYED A BIT LIKE: Danny Murphy

The man known also known as the ‘Maestro’ is recognised as Fulham’s greatest ever-player. The legendary Pele once described him as the best passer of the ball he had ever seen and few could rival Haynes’ technique, control and vision. He remained at Fulham for his entire career, turning down the attentions of both Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan, and not only captained Fulham, but England too.

No player has played more matches for Fulham than Haynes, who pulled on the shirt no fewer than 658 times. Younger fans will no doubt be familiar with his name as the stand alongside Stevenage Road is named after him, while outside the entrance to the Cottage stands a statue in his honour.

DID YOU KNOW? Haynes won 56 England caps, 22 of which were as captain. He also played in two World Cup Finals in 1958 and 1962.